Pubs prepare for smoking ban

Daryl Lloyd, chairman of Shrewsbury Licensed Victuallers Association, who runs the Cross Foxes in Longden Coleham, said: "The Prince of Wales is doing all the decking area out by the bowling green and having big umbrellas."Unfortunately, where we are here, we have no facilities or outside space, so it is going to affect a lot of people who come here.

"We haven't got all the information of what we can do from the Government yet, so people are quite wary of putting up new structures in case it all has to come down again."

Sean Dodd, bar manager at the White Horse on Wenlock Road, said that the pub had banned smoking around six weeks ago.

"We're hoping to put up a jumberella, which is a giant thing covering most of the courtyard, as people have got to have somewhere to go for a cigarette."

Mr Dodd added: "We've got signs up everywhere, and the odd person who hasn't noticed has come to the bar for an ashtray and had a bit of a grumble when they can't have one, but we have not really had a negative response."

Politicians voted in February to introduce the smoking ban. The restriction is due to come into force next summer.

Telford LVA secretary Eddie Main said it would have a big impact on local pubs.

"A lot of the individuals are just waiting to see how the rules pan out at the moment but some of the larger companies, such as Punch, are taking on the planning and installation of outside additions ahead of the ban."

By Alys Cummings